Cup and Ball Magician Automaton. Los Angeles: Alan Wakeling, ca. 2002. As the handle of the apparatus is cranked, the magician raises and lowers both arms and nods his head, then covers the table in front of him with a cup held in one hand. Each time he raises the cup, the object under it – a ball – has changed or vanished. Concealed music box plays Vivaldi’s Spring to accompany the movements. The components of this handsome automaton were crafted by Alan Wakeling and his wife Helen; Alan constructed the mechanism and working parts, Helen sculpted the face. Each automaton the Wakelings constructed was built to order at significant cost, and fewer than ten Cup and Ball magicians were completed. Height 32”, base 17 x 14 x 7”. Good working condition.